Cross the Bridge - April 29, 2016

"My heart is filled with bitter sorrow and unending grief for my people, my Jewish brothers and sisters. I would be willing to be forever cursed - cut off from Christ! - if that would save them."
NKJV

We all have a passion for something. It may be for our family, our job or even for our favorite hobby. These are all great things, and we can enjoy sharing these passions with others. Unfortunately, many Christians do not have a passion for the lost. They will rally behind their favorite sports team or spend hours discussing the latest video game to hit the market, but when pressed about those who are without Jesus, they are indifferent. Friend, we cannot be indifferent towards the lost. We should pray for the same passion Paul had for the lost.

Paul proclaims in no uncertain terms that he would willfully give up his own salvation so that his Jewish brothers and sisters would be saved. Now THAT is passion for the lost. So how do we gain this passion? I believe, in part, it comes from understanding what the future holds for those who die without Jesus. To imagine any of my loved one's being eternally separated from God and punished for their sins, causes me to tremble. This sorrow leads me into a passionate desire to see them saved. How about you? Together, let's seek out those who need Jesus, share His love and change the world!

Life Lesson: We should have a sorrow and a passion for the lost.

Dear God,
Thank You for Your salvation and Your love for me. Father, help me to be mindful of the lost. Give me a passion to proclaim Your name and to pray for those who need You. I pray that You would draw my friends and family to Yourself so that they too may know the peace that comes from a relationship with You. In Jesus' name, amen.